Once primarily limited to the underground realm of rock and hip-hop subcultures, streetwear has now broken into the mainstream, exerting a profound influence on modern fashion. With its roots in both skate and surf culture and the influence of the urban environment, streetwear has evolved in recent years to encompass more and more styles and genres. Today, streetwear no longer serves as a marker of “bad boy” cool, but has instead become its own fashion trend, embracing everything from classic cuts to urban chic. This article takes a look at the influence of streetwear, and how urban fashion has become a true force in the fashion world.

1. Exploring the Rise of Streetwear

Streetwear has grown exponentially over the last couple of decades. From its skateboarder beginnings to gracing the pages of Vogue, it is a trend that has become ubiquitous in mainstream fashion. Let’s take a look at the factors that have contributed to the rise of streetwear.

Function: Streetwear started out as practical clothing, created with functionality in mind. It was designed to let people move freely, without restricting movement, featuring loose cuts and drawstring waists. Although the style has since morphed into something much more daring and eclectic, this function-over-form concept has remained at the heart of the streetwear world.

Marketing: Streetwear branding has become something of a sly art form. With the aid of some seriously clever marketing campaigns, streetwear has infiltrated the public consciousness. Branding trends include everything from bold colours, to surrealist prints, to irreverent suggestions. This has impacted the masses, making people more receptive to streetwear than ever before.

Celebrity Endorsement: Streetwear has been the garment of choice for pop culture figures such as Kanye West and Justin Bieber. Through their endorsement, people are much more likely to dabble in streetwear and be open to new styles. This celebrity backing has added a level of credibility to streetwear, widening its appeal.

Ultimately, streetwear is a culture that has permeated almost every aspect of modern fashion. Its rise is down to a mix of function, marketing and celebrity endorsement, and it shows no signs of waning.

2. The Impact of Streetwear on Urban Fashion

Streetwear has become a pervasive phenomenon in urban fashion over the years. Distinctive in its style and rooted in hip hop culture, streetwear is characterized by oversized clothing pieces and graphic prints. This unique style has had a lasting impact on fashion, with elements like these commonplace in urban fashion collections.

• It has become a major influence among urban fashion designers and has pushed a trend towards statement pieces. Many brands have adapted signature streetwear prints and elements into their apparel, creating a vibrant display of urban fashion.
• Aside from design, the influence of streetwear is seen in its comfort-focused designs. Baggy silhouettes and relaxed fits call for comfortability without compromising style. As a result, urban fashion has leaned more towards everyday wear, with individual styles taking precedence over traditional trends.
• This emphasis on comfort has been revolutionary, as it has allowed people to express themselves more freely in their fashion choices. With streetwear, people may substitute trend driven pieces for individual style based pieces, enabling them to create a unique look.

Streetwear has had a tremendous impact on urban fashion, driving trends and creating a space for individual expression in fashion. This impact has fostered more aesthetically vibrant urban fashion, with people starting to pay more attention to statement pieces.

3. Street Style Culture: What’s Behind It?

Street Style is a unique, urban form of self-expression that has grown rapidly in the past few years. While it was once met with a raised eyebrow, today it is embraced almost everywhere – from the catwalk to the sidewalk. So, what’s behind this culture?

The foundation is simple; style that comes from the streets. Much of the source of inspiration is taken from streetwear –think joggers, oversized tees and graphic t-shirts. Although modern street style has embraced a more tailored and fitted look.

The beauty lies in the fact that anyone who wants to express themselves can jump on board – regardless of their budget. Streetstyle has also opened the doors for creative outlets and collaborations; for example:

• Flea Markets: These provide great opportunities to pick up hidden gems at low prices, turning them into individualized, unique pieces.
• DIY Projects: There’s no shortage of ideas when it comes to customizing your wardrobe, from reworking an old pair of jeans, to simply adding a quirky vintage belt!

So, when it comes to Streetstyle, think less boundaries and more creative liberty.

4. An Ever-Evolving Collision of Streetwear and Fashion

Streetwear first graced the catwalks in 1982, when Stephen Sprouse was invited to design the costumes for the Blondie music video Rapture. But it wasn’t until the mid-2000s when streetwear made a leap from sub-culture to fashion-culture.

Today, labels from Urban Outfitters to Off-White have taken the era’s rebellious street aesthetic, and run with it. Its influence is now ingrained in the everyday, from high fashion to fast fashion. And every season, streetwear is inspiring bigger and bolder fashion trends than ever before.

With no set rules or boundaries, streetwear and fashion have created an ever-evolving mix of styles. Traditional silhouettes and classic tailoring are being upgraded with contemporary details that appeal to all generations. Topping the list right now are denim dungarees, oversized hoodies, slogan T-shirts, and track pants. Prada’s Spring/Summer 2020 show is a great example, showcasing a sensational collision of street style and luxury fashion.

From grunge to rock’n’roll, there’s an abundance of modern-day streetwear trends that transcend time and styles. Here’s what you need to know about the 2020 looks:

• Denim Jackets: A staple of anyone’s wardrobe, the denim jacket can be combined with anything from a maxi dress to a plain T-shirt.
• Utility Vests: Oversized, camouflage-print vests with big pockets are a big hit not only for streetwear fanatics, but also for festivalgoers.
• Denim Leggings: Add some edge to your look with this signature streetwear piece.
• Fanny Packs: An icon of the 1990s, these are making a big return. Give some love to your old-school fanny pack.

The rise of streetwear and urban fashion has been undeniable, and it seems certain that it will continue its reign as the dominant style in fashion. While trends come and go, the influence of streetwear seems to be here to stay, with its urban vibes and bold designs that have revamped one of the most popular genres in modern fashion. With its mix of comfort, style, and freshness, urban fashion is sure to stay at the forefront for a long time to come.